UAE's first nuclear power plant loading fuel in preparation for start-up: WAM

Dubai — The UAE's first nuclear power plant is loading fuel in preparation for startup of unit 1, paving the way for the Gulf state to be the first in the region to use nuclear energy for power generation, the country's state-run WAM news agency said Wednesday.

Nawah Energy Co., the Emirate Nuclear Energy Corp. unit responsible for the operation and maintenance of four nuclear power plants, earlier this week received the license and go-ahead for unit 1 from the UAE's watchdog, Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation. The license is for 60 years, WAM said.

"Once the fuel assemblies are loaded, Nawah will run a series of tests, prior to commencing the start-up sequence process known as Power Ascension Testing, PAT, where operators will safely and steadily raise the power generation levels," WAM said, citing comments from Nawah CEO Mark Reddermann.

The start-up of the nuclear plants, which was slated for 2017 following the start of construction in 2012, was postponed due to the delays in issuing the license.

Once all four reactors are up and running, the plants will supply up to 25% of the UAE's electricity needs or 5,600 MW.

The UAE, which currently relies mostly on gas for power and water generation, is adding renewable and nuclear power to its energy mix as it frees up gas for consumption in industries and other sectors.